History

Find out more about the origins and the history of the School in the 7 minute video below.

History timeline

1937

School History

School Founded

Henry George School of Economics founded in London by Leon MacLaren. It was renamed the School of Economic Science in 1942.

1954

First Philosophy Courses

Philosophy Courses

First series of Philosophy courses offered, developed from the teachings of Ouspensky and Gurdjieff.

1957

Overseas Schools

First Overseas Schools

First overseas school established in Wellington, NZ. Since then associated schools have opened in North America, Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Cyprus, Germany, Holland, Hungary, Ireland, Israel, Malta, S Africa, Spain, Trinidad and Venezuela.

1959

Meditation

Maharishi Mahesh Yogi visits the UK, bringing the next stage of development, Meditation.

1965

Meetings

First of many meetings of Leon MacLaren and Shri Shantananda Saraswati.

c1975

Courses in Bristol

Philosophy courses first offered in Bristol

1994

Mr MacLaren passes away

New Senior Tutor

Mr MacLaren passes away. Mr Donald Lambie succeeds him as Senior Tutor.

1997

Shri Shantananda passes away

New Teacher

Shri Shantananda passes away. First meeting with Shri Vasudevananda Saraswati.

1997

School name change

School name changed

The name of the school is changed to the School of Philosophy and Economic Science.

How it works on our educational courses

A tutor presents material, and leads a discussion based on what arises. Being practical rather than academic, the emphasis is on personal knowledge. Students are encouraged neither to accept nor reject the ideas put forward, but to test them in practice for themselves, in the light of their own experience.

Frequently asked questions

What does ‘Practical Philosophy’ mean?

The course is practical in the sense that it takes philosophical ideas and shows how they can be of direct use in our everyday lives. The intention is to stimulate enquiry and through this expand the way we look at the world and ourselves.

How do I register for the course?

Online by clicking ‘Enrol Now’ on this page, or by calling 07873230651
or emailing [email protected].

If you register online, you will receive a confirmation email with your day of attendance. If you register by any means other than online, you will receive a receipt confirming your registration.

Do I need previous experience?

No, all you need is an open and enquiring mind. The course is intended for everyone, regardless of education, occupation, race, political or religious belief.

Are the face-to-face courses safe?

Face-to-face meetings will be held safely following the latest updates relating to all Health & Safety guidelines for your complete peace of mind.

What happens if there are any new social distancing restrictions or a potential lockdown?

In the event that the Government impose new social distancing / travelling restrictions or a potential new lockdown we will respond to that promptly with everyone’s safety in mind.

If at any point in time new restrictions arise that point towards putting a hold on social gatherings, we will make sure you still have live access to this course by delivering it to you online via Zoom group meetings until any and all restrictions are lifted so that safe face-to-face meetings can reconvene.

Can I attend the course online?

Yes, we also offer the course as an online course via Zoom, ask for details.

How do I attend a course?

First you need to enrol on a course. The in-person courses are available in Bristol and at many other local venues up and down the country. A local map can be found on this page.

Do you have any questions?

If you have any questions simply call Tony Setchfield on 07873230651 or by emailing

[email protected]

What some of our students say...

"Lovely people with a strong sense of why learning is valuable at any stage in life."

"I started off with the Introduction to Practical Philosophy during the first lockdown and can honestly say it was a lifesaver."

"Have thoroughly enjoyed the introductory course and the daily awareness exercise practice. "

The courses have limited spaces and can get fully booked up in advance, so to save disappointment it is advisable to reserve your place on the next course well in advance.